Archive for April, 2014

Seeing how Easter is just around the corner, a Fabergé egg might have been more suitable to turn up on the Antiques Roadshow, but I thought that you’ll be just as happy with Nelson’s teapot. And it’s the real thing!

How did Nelson’s teapot find its way into the Antiques Roadshow? Well, this lady brought it along.

Her grandmother’s maiden name was Barlow, and she was a descentant of Admiral Sir Robert Barlow, who “commanded one of Nelson’s ships”. Looking at the order of the battle which survived through the centuries, you can see that it was HMS Triumph.

Barlow’s third daughter married Horatio Nelson’s elder brother William, and he inherited title and teapot after Nelson’s death.

The teapot was part of the so-called “Baltic Service”, which was presented to Nelson by the people of London on occasion of a banquet. And it was made in – France. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this a recycled piece of French china. Oh those thrifty Londoners!

Isn’t it amazing that this teapot survived through the centuries? Final proof neither Nelson nor Emma had cats.

Having a cuppa from this teapot will set you back at least £ 20’000, for that’s what it would probably bring at an auction. And as with all things Nelson, sky would be the limit.

It wouldn’t be complete without the knitted commemorative Collingwood tea cosy, though (which is slightly more affordable).